Every Friday throughout Lent, Christians around the world abstain from meat. We do this as a special fast to remember Good Friday, the day that Jesus died on the cross for our sins.
I love Fridays in Lent because they kick me out of my normal cooking and eating routines. My family usually eats meat at dinnertime so it is a stretch for me to make a meatless meal. As I am stretched and in the midst of my mild discomfort, I am reminded of the incredible sacrifices that Jesus made for all of us his whole life.
Sometimes I make homemade soup. Our favorites for Lent are French Onion or Tomato. Sometimes I make homemade cheese pizzas. Whatever I do, I always keep it easy. However, sometimes life is so crazy that I can’t handle making dinner. What do I do in those situations? I cut open a giant bag of frozen fish sticks, pour them onto a pan, place the pan in the oven, and press “bake.”
Celebrating the church year is so meaningful but never meant to be a burden that we are crushed under. Remember to go easy on yourself. Make fish sticks like me or order cheese pizzas and have them delivered. There is no “right” way to celebrate the liturgical year.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30